developmental dysplasia of the hip

Today Alex paid a visit to Radiology for an ultrasound of his hips. Since he was in a breech position at the time of delivery, his pediatrician wanted to rule out DDH (developmental dysplasia of the hip). Evidently, the breech position has a tendency to force the ball of the hip out of the socket, predisposing to dislocation after birth. The highest risk is the frank breech position with the hips flexed and the knees extended (i.e. feet up by the shoulders)–Alex was not in this position.

Since DDH is a developmental or ongoing process, it is not always detectable at birth. So, Alex will have a hip exam each time he visits the pediatrician. As the months pass, the likelihood of a DDH manifestation diminishes.